Bayern Munich: Philipp Lahm impressed by progress made by Jamal Musiala
The attacking department at Bayern Munich suffered a major blow last summer as Robert Lewandowski decided to leave after spending eight seasons in Bavaria. The Polish striker got his wish before pre-season as he completed a move to Barcelona. It was the most expensive sale in Bayern’s history.
After the departure of Lewandowski, Die Roten decided to use an alternative approach to replace him. The German club signed Sadio Mane from Liverpool to get an experienced forward. The other signing in the same position was young Mathys Tel from Rennes. Both players were expensive buys for Die Roten, but they are not natural number nines.
Julian Nagelsmann decided to use a fluid front three instead of having a traditional number nine. He eventually brought Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting into the starting XI in October after the team struggled for league wins in September. During the switch between systems, Jamal Musiala’s consistent performances in the final third remained constant.
Musiala has taken his game to the next level this season. The youngster is scoring at a better rate and providing more creativity in the final third. It will not be wrong to say that he is currently the heartbeat of Die Roten’s attack. While talking to Bundesliga.com, former Bayern defender Philipp Lahm also insisted that Musiala has been the standout player in the Bundesliga along with Borussia Dortmund’s Jude Bellingham.
"“If there’s one to choose, I’d have to say Jude Bellingham, who has developed very well so far. Also, Jamal Musiala, who especially in 22/23 so far has been crucial in almost all games.”“Musiala and Bellingham became established Bundesliga players over the past year. They are still developing so there is still more for us to see from them in 2023. I’m curious to see how they continue and how they find their place on the pitch and within their teams.”"
Jamal Musiala is currently the top goalscorer for Bayern in the Bundesliga with nine goals. His presence in and around the box has caused problems for all defenders in the Bundesliga. The youngster can dribble past players in the box with his quick feet. Musiala is a solid finisher, which makes him a very prized asset in the current squad.
In terms of creativity, Musiala has created 25 chances in the Bundesliga. He is second on the list of chances created for Bayern this season, behind Joshua Kimmich. The youngster also has the most assists in the Bundesliga for Die Roten with six assists.
Jamal Musiala also delivered impressive performances in the World Cup 2022. He was the only silver lining for Germany in a disappointing campaign as they were knocked out in the group stage. The youngster thrived on the left flank and number ten role for Germany, creating the most chances for the team in the three group games.
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After the disappointment with Germany in Qatar, Musiala will be looking to bounce back for Bayern in the second half of the season. The German attacking midfielder has a good chance of contributing to 40 goals and assists by the end of the campaign. Lahm may have one standout name for the player of the year award at the end of the season if Musiala helps Die Roten defend the Bundesliga title.